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Benefits of Canadian Citizenship – Why It’s Worth It
For many immigrants, obtaining Canadian citizenship is a significant goal. After residing in Canada as a permanent resident, you may qualify to apply for citizenship so you can access full rights and opportunities.This guide will help you understand the basic processes, obligations, and benefits of Canadian citizenship in a simple and structured way.
Who Can Apply for Canadian Citizenship?
To be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship, you must:
- Have permanent resident status in Canada
- Have lived in Canada for three out of the previous five years (1,095 days)
- Have you filed your taxes, if required under Canadian tax law
- Pass the Canadian citizenship test (for applicants aged 18 to 54)
- Provide evidence of English or French language ability (for applicants aged 18 to 54)
Key Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
There are some key reasons people choose to take up Canadian citizenship:
This relates to your Voting and Political Rights.
- A Strong Passport
With a Canadian passport, you can visit over 185 countries as a tourist without a visa or by acquiring a visa on arrival. It is one of the strongest in the world.Note: Canada allows dual citizenship, but some countries, such as India, do not. As an Indian citizen, you will have to surrender your Indian passport to get a Canadian passport.
- No Renewal of Immigration Status
Permanent residents must renew their PR cards every 5 years, which involves paperwork and fees. Citizens don’t have to do this — they only renew their passports every 10 years for travel. This is one of the major Benefits of Canadian Citizenship.
- More Job Opportunities
Certain federal government jobs and roles that require a security clearance are available only to citizens. Citizenship may open doors to careers that PRs cannot access.
- Freedom to Travel Without Restrictions
- Canadian citizens can live outside Canada without worrying about losing their status.
- Permanent residents must meet residency requirements, or they risk losing their PR.
- Voting and Political Rights
- You vote in national, provincial, and municipal elections and even run for office.
- You will have a say in important decisions such as healthcare, education, and the economy.
- Children's Citizenship
- Children born in Canada automatically become citizens.
- You can pass down your citizenship to your children born outside of Canada — only if you're a Canadian citizen.
Learn more about Canadian Citizenship for Children.
- Jury Duty Participation
As a citizen, you may be called to jury duty. This is part of your role as a member of Canadian society.
Permanent Resident vs Citizen: What’s the Difference?
Feature Permanent Resident Canadian Citizen Must renew status Yes, every 5 years No Can vote or run for office No Yes Can lose status if outside Canada too long Yes No Can pass on citizenship to children born abroad No Yes Need Help Applying for Citizenship?
At VisaExperts (by Abhinav Immigration), we guide you step-by-step through the process — whether you're just getting started or are ready to apply.
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If you're unsure about the Canadian Citizenship Requirements Checklist, we’re here to help.